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Discover Unforgettable Ibiza Holidays with Travel Republic

• por Elisabeth Gonzalez Smith
• agosto 19, 2024

Discover the vibrant allure of Ibiza, Spain, with Travel Republic’s exceptional holiday packages. Renowned for its stunning beaches, pulsating nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, Ibiza offers an unforgettable getaway for every type of traveler. Whether you seek relaxation under the Mediterranean sun or thrilling adventures in the island’s famous clubs, Travel Republic ensures a seamless experience tailored to your desires. Dive into the magic of Ibiza and create memories that will last a lifetime.

What is the cost of a one-week trip to Ibiza?

Planning a week in Ibiza can be an exciting yet budget-conscious endeavor. To ensure a comfortable stay, aim for a daily budget of approximately €100 to €150, which should cover accommodation, meals, and transportation. Accommodations typically range from €50 to €100 per night, allowing you to choose options that fit your style and wallet. With thoughtful planning, you can enjoy the vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and lively nightlife that Ibiza has to offer without breaking the bank.

What is the ideal number of days to spend in Ibiza?

Ibiza is a vibrant island that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to escape the everyday hustle. To truly immerse yourself in the island’s beauty and culture, planning a trip of at least three full days is essential. This duration allows you to explore its stunning beaches, quaint villages, and indulge in the renowned nightlife that Ibiza is famous for.

Many travelers underestimate the variety of experiences available on the island, often thinking a quick visit of one or two days will suffice. However, to truly appreciate the charm of Ibiza, you’ll want time to savor its delicious cuisine at local restaurants, lounge on its picturesque shores, and dance the night away at world-class clubs. Each day can offer a new adventure, whether it’s discovering hidden coves or enjoying a sunset at a beach bar.

A long weekend in Ibiza not only provides ample time for relaxation but also allows you to create lasting memories. With a perfect mix of day and night activities, you can unwind by the sea and then transition into the island’s vibrant nightlife. So pack your bags for at least three days and get ready to experience all that Ibiza has to offer!

When is the best time to visit Ibiza, Spain?

Ibiza, known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, truly shines in the months of May, June, and September. During this period, visitors can enjoy warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time to explore the island’s rich cultural heritage. From wandering through the historic walled citadel of Ibiza Town to discovering charming rural villages and unique hippie markets, there’s no shortage of activities to immerse yourself in.

In addition to cultural exploration, these months offer the perfect backdrop for leisurely beach days and long, relaxing lunches by the sea. With fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, you can soak in the beautiful scenery and unwind at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, visiting Ibiza during late spring or early autumn provides an unforgettable experience filled with sun-drenched leisure and captivating sights.

Experience the Magic of Ibiza: Your Ultimate Holiday Awaits

Discover the enchanting allure of Ibiza, where sun-kissed beaches meet vibrant nightlife, creating an unforgettable holiday experience. This Mediterranean paradise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, with crystal-clear waters inviting you to unwind by the shore or indulge in thrilling water sports. Explore charming villages, savor delectable local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich culture, all while basking in the warm, inviting atmosphere that Ibiza is renowned for.

As the sun sets, Ibiza transforms into a dazzling playground for night owls, featuring world-class DJs and legendary clubs that promise to keep the party going until dawn. Whether you prefer dancing under the stars or enjoying a laid-back evening at a beach bar, the island caters to every taste. With its breathtaking landscapes, lively spirit, and endless activities, Ibiza is not just a destination; it’s an experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return. Your ultimate holiday awaits in this magical haven.

Unwind in Paradise: Tailored Getaways to Ibiza

Escape to the enchanting island of Ibiza, where azure waters meet vibrant nightlife in a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Our tailored getaways offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s stunning scenery and rich culture. Picture yourself lounging on sun-soaked beaches by day, then indulging in exquisite dining experiences and world-renowned entertainment by night. Each moment in Ibiza is designed to rejuvenate your spirit and awaken your senses, making it the ultimate destination for those seeking both tranquility and excitement.

Experience the essence of paradise with personalized itineraries that cater to your every desire. Whether you crave serene yoga retreats, exhilarating water sports, or exclusive parties at iconic clubs, our expert team will craft a memorable escape just for you. Discover hidden gems, savor local flavors, and connect with fellow travelers while basking in the island’s irresistible charm. Let Ibiza be your personal sanctuary, where every day unfolds with the promise of adventure and the bliss of unwinding in a breathtaking setting.

Explore Ibiza’s Hidden Gems: Book Your Dream Vacation Today

Ibiza is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, but beyond the glitz lies a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From secluded coves with crystal-clear waters to charming villages steeped in history, the island offers a serene escape for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Explore the lush landscapes of the interior, where you can find authentic local markets, traditional cuisine, and breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the island’s natural beauty.

Your dream vacation is just a booking away, allowing you to immerse yourself in the unique culture and enchanting scenery of Ibiza. Whether you seek relaxation in a tranquil retreat or an adventure filled with exploration, these hidden gems provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories. Don’t miss the chance to experience Ibiza beyond the crowds; uncover the island’s secrets and create a getaway that truly reflects your desires.

Travel Republic holidays to Ibiza, Spain, offer an unparalleled blend of sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled escape, Ibiza caters to every traveler’s dream. With its stunning landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, this Mediterranean gem promises memories that will last a lifetime. Embrace the magic of Ibiza and let Travel Republic be your gateway to an unforgettable holiday.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Ibiza

Beyond the hippy days and techno raves, the best things to do in  Ibiza  can be attributed to the island's staggering natural beauty of windswept beaches, coves, rocky red cliffs and pine forests. Spend your days swimming and snorkeling, hiking, or renting a boat to explore hard-to-reach bays. Away from the beaches, visit the cute villages and town squares that make this  Balearic Island  beat, each with its unique vibe but full of local cafes, restaurants, and shops. With a Phoenician settlement founded in 654 BC, much of the island is steeped in history, with UNESCO heritage sites of ancient settlements dotted around. Spend some time traipsing around Ibiza Town, a labyrinth of bustling shops and restaurants with an ancient past seen in its cobbled stone streets and castle that looms large over the island. Here, we share a snapshot of things to do in Ibiza, including what to see and explore to get to know this mythical island.

Best things to do in Ibiza

Visit Dalt Vila and the castle of Ibiza

A World Heritage Site, Dalt Vila (Upper Town) is Ibiza Town’s old quarter. It’s located above Ibiza Town inside a magnificent ancient fortress with Renaissance town walls, cobbled stone streets and tight alleyways. Originally built to defend the island, it’s now a charming labyrinth of bustling restaurants, bars and shops such as  Annie’s Ibiza  (a favorite amongst the fashion set, including Kate Moss when she’s in town) and  La Oliva . This cheerful restaurant spills out on to the cobbled stones. Visit during the evening to see this old part of town at its liveliest.

Go shopping

Pound the pavement around Ibiza Town for a wonderful hodgepodge of shops. Start at the newly pedestrianized boulevard of Vara De Rey, shopping at haunts like  Ruta Market , a colorful store selling affordable fun fashion. Here, you’re also surrounded by high-street stores like Massimo Dutti, Mango and Zara. Head inwards along the winding streets of Ibiza Town for a pick‘n’mix of high and low international and local fashion, including local Balearic label  Charo Ruiz . Pick up a traditional straw basket from Can Vinyes, one of the oldest basket weavers on the island, now in its third generation. For vintage finds, stop at Holala Ibiza for all manner of thrift ware, or head to  Vincenta Ganesha , a treasure trove of collectable vintage, including the original Paula’s Ibiza. Further towards the port and around the marina is where the glitzier shops live—Dior, Loewe, Dolce & Gabbana, etc.

Visit the villages

Make time to visit the little villages that make up the heart and soul of the White Isle, each with its own distinct vibe. Santa Gertrudis, in the island's heart, attracts well-to-do boho-chic families and is filled with lovely restaurants, bars and stores selling perfectly fringed knick-knacks and organic cotton floaty dresses. Further east are San Carlos and Santa Eulalia. The former resembles a beautiful time-warped village with bright white buildings and an 18th-century church. Visit Bar Anita, a traditional Ibizan café that has remained unchanged since the 40s. To the west are the villages of San Jose and San Antonio. The latter may be famous for its all-out party scene, but it also has some of the island’s most stunning beaches and sunsets. South of the island, you’ll find the charming villages of Es Cubells, Sant Francesc and Sant Jordi, which have free open-air film screenings in the town square throughout July and August. Head north to Es Portinax, a tourist-heavy town now with hotels like the ultra-luxury  Six Senses Ibiza  and eclectic Los Enamorados. Don’t skip San Miguel, a quaint village with a cute selection of bars, restaurants and cafes, including Can Xicu de sa Torre, an old-school wooden Ibicencan bar.

Go clubbing

In Ibiza, there is a club for everyone. For a glitzy time, head to  Club Chinois . For dinner and a cabaret, book a table at  Lío.  Get your rave on inside an old airline hanger at DC-10, which attracts the all-black techno-set. Daytime party-goers should head to  Ushuaïa ,  Destino  and  Cova Santa , or for a thumping super-club experience, visit  Hï  and  Amnesia . Then, of course, there's the one that started them all:  Pacha . It was the first club on the island, and it still pulls in a crowd from first-timers to loyal gig-goers, depending on the night. The hippy market Las Dalia now boasts one of the most exciting clubs on the island,  Akasha , featuring a roster of local and international DJs, an impeccable sound system and an intimate crowd (max 300-capacity space).

Visit the hippie markets

The hippie markets are a lovely little portal into Ibiza’s unique happy-go-lucky culture.  Punta Arabi  at Es Canar is the oldest and biggest market on the island. It’s held every Wednesday and Friday with over 500 stalls. The legendary colorful hippy market in San Carlos,  Las Dalias , is open from Saturday to Tuesday. Every Sunday, the little village of Sant Joan plays host to its cute market with organic food, crafts and clothes stalls and live music. For something more traditional, head to San Miguel Artisan Market. There are only a handful of stalls held every Thursday, but there is traditional Ibizan folk dancing and live music.

Visit Formentera

Only 45 minutes by ferry and often referred to as Ibiza’s little sister, Formentera has a lower-octane vibe. Here, life is about taking it slow. Swim off the red rocks at Caló des Mort or enjoy spiked lemonade pomadas with your toes in the sand at ramshackle kiosks that dot the beach like Kiosko 62. Rent a boat and head to Espalmador Island. Part of the Natural Park of Ses Salines of Ibiza and Formentera, it’s an uninhibited white-sand sliver of paradise surrounded by bluer-than-blue water. Or head for a long lunch at one of the many beachside restaurants such as Beso Beach , Juan y Andrea , or Casa Pacha Formentera .

Rent a boat and visit Es Vedrá and its surrounding coves

Es Vedra, the uninhabited islet that rises from the ocean, is part of the legend of Ibiza—some say its magnetic powers draw people back time and time again. Rent a boat at Cala d’Hort or Cala Tarida and make a day of it, visiting the mythical rock and surrounding coves, such as the magical Atlantis, a quarry-like rock structure opposite Es Vedrà. Or, if the conditions are ripe, kayak from Cala d’Hort to Es Vedra.

Visit the beaches

There are hundreds of beaches in Ibiza. Here are a few island favorites. About 6 miles southwest of Ibiza Town, you’ll find the specular red rock cliffs of Sa Caleta (Es Bol Nou) beach. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the ruins of an ancient Phoenician settlement. Just 2 kilometres from Ibiza Town is Talamanca Beach. Its soft sand strip is dotted with low-key restaurants, cafes and the high-key Nobu Hotel. For old-school magic, head to Salinas Beach and walk to  Sa Trinxa  restaurant, where the Balearic beats spill onto the sand. The wild and windswept shore of Cala Conta in San Antonio boasts some of the best sunsets on the island and is also home to the iconic  Sunset Ashram . Equally spectacular is Cala Salada with its Listerine-blue water and slabs of red rocks, which are sprinkled with suntanned bodies in high summer. Northwest, Cala Benirrás Beach attracts hippies and families for its famous sunset drum sessions. Up north, snorkel around the rocks of the stamp-sized beach of Cala Xarraca, before finishing up at the chiringuito.

Go for a hike

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Ibiza is by foot. Like beaches, there are hundreds of hiking routes to choose from. Here are some of the scene stealers. Sa Talaia is the highest mountain in Ibiza. At 1,300 feet high, you can start the trail from the church of Sant Josep, through the beautiful countryside before taking in a 360-degree view of Ibiza. Up north, The Moscarter Lighthouse is a rocky hike that starts from a small cove in Portinax and leads you cliffside until you reach the 140-foot high summit. Or, take an intermediate hike from Cala Salada to San Antonio, which takes you past spectacular beaches such as Cala Yoga and Gracioneta. To curate your hikes and outdoor adventures, contact specialist agents and/or guides such as  Rockid .

Visit some art galleries

The last few years have seen a boom in Ibiza’s art scene. Near the salt village of Las Salinas beach, you’ll find Le Nave Salinave . It’s an old salt warehouse turned gallery by NYC-based art collector Lio Malca – past blockbusters include an immersive Keith Haring exhibition. Wrapped in the town walls of Dalt Vila, inside an old bunker that served as an armoury, is Museu D’art Contemporani D’Eivissa (MACE). It’s a contemporary art gallery dedicated to modern work, some international and others with an Ibizan connection. Down a rocky path near Jesús is Espacio Micus , a space that started as a workshop in the 70s by abstract artist Espacio Micus. After his death, his daughter Katja turned the space into a gallery that exhibits contemporary artists alongside her father’s original work. In San Antonio, inside the eye-catching hyper-eclectic hotel Paradiso is ADDA Gallery . Founded by Anna Dimitrova, this gallery has all kinds of quirky fun installations that play with light and colour. On the San Juan road, stop at Lost Artist Ibiza farmhouse-turned-Ibiza-studio of British artist Christopher Stone, featuring his signature bronze sculptures.

Horse around

Explore Ibiza’s spectacular countryside on horseback . The White Isle has unique riding companies dotted around the island—from the mountains to the beaches—such as North Ride Ibiza and Ibiza Stud in Santa Gertrudis. For those wanting to give back, try Ibiza Horse Valley – a not-for-profit sanctuary that saves from abandonment or mistreatment. The refuge, located in a 40-hectare canyon, is to gently rehabilitate the horses, allowing them to live in a herd in a close-to-wild setting. Once physically ready, the horses re-enter the riding world. With a herd of about 17 horses, half-day group excursions are offered all year round through the mountains and valleys in the north of Ibiza. All riders from all levels are welcome.

In Ibiza, dancing and movement don’t just happen in a club or after-hours. Sober dance parties and movement circles on the White Isle are practically part of the mainstream. For those wanting to lose themselves in dance and connect with others in a safe space, check out the Ecstatic Dance Ibiza Tribe and their timetable of events in various locations with killer sound systems and DJs. For those wanting to have more of a workout, check out Primal Moves . Now a global phenomenon, Primal Moves was started in Ibiza by Nick Brewer, a former prisoner who uses the movements of yoga, pilates and full-body locomotive patterns to form this bendy cult workout.

Look inward

Ibiza is well-known as the capital of alternative new-age therapies, with many believing the island has a unique healing energy. There is something for everyone, from shamans to chakra healers and everything in between. Six Senses Ibiza is fast becoming known as a luxury wellness HQ, with retreats throughout the year that bring together the best of the best from around the world for talks, classes and reflections. Jeremie Quidu is on every yogi's speed dial for those wanting private group classes and specializes in everything from sound meditation and crystal therapy to healing circles.

Discover the unique flora of the White Isle at Ibiza Biotechnological Botanical (also known as Bibo Park). One of Europe's most technologically advanced botanical gardens, there are over 30,000 plants on-site that range from rare to medicinal and even musical (the world’s first ‘vegetable piano’ lives here). The park is dedicated to biotech and interesting on-the-go experiments, such as plant-powered biological batteries for smartphones and a drinkable H2O machine that allows you to drink water straight from the sky. Away from the science, it’s a space to promote the general ecology of the area—there are pine forests to zen out in and loads of activities on offer, such as guided tours, seed planting, and bird watching.

Find your inner hippy

What started as a peaceful anti-war protest in the ’90s still gathers peace lovers and hippies to Benirras beach every Sunday to dance and beat drums to the rhythm of the spectacular sunset. Everyone is welcome, and during high season, you can expect hundreds on the beach, all dancing hypnotically as the sun slips below the horizon.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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All-night raver, boho-cool hippy, blissed-out beach lover – Ibiza is all this and more to the many, many fans who have a soft spot for the Balearics' party-hard sister. In summer the cream of the world's DJs (David Guetta, Sven Väth, Armin van Buuren et al) descend on the island, making it the ultimate destination for clubbers. Ibiza's modest population is swallowed whole by the seven-million-odd tourists that arrive en masse each year, and nowhere does sunset chilling or boho-glam style quite like the White Isle.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Platja de Ses Salines

South Ibiza

Arguably Ibiza's best beach, Platja de Ses Salines is a gorgeous sweep of white sand with glass-clear sea, backed by rolling sand dunes, patches of sabina…

Its formidable, floodlit, 16th-century bastions visible from across southern Ibiza, Dalt Vila is a fortified hilltop first settled by the Phoenicans and…

Platges de Comte

Occupying a low-lying headland, this dreamy cluster of three blonde-sand coves enjoys shallow, fabulously clear aquamarine waters. The beaches face…

Ibiza’s most contemporary attraction is a stunning open-air, clifftop monument that locals have named Stonehenge. A semicircle of 13 basalt columns, it…

Completely encircling Dalt Vila, Ibiza's colossal protective walls reach more than 25m in height and include seven bastions. Evocatively floodlit at night…

Puig de Missa

The hillock looming at the southwest end of Santa Eulària was a perfect retreat for the town's citizens during the centuries when Ibiza was plagued by…

Cala Mastella

This little sandy cove is tucked into a deep inlet where pine trees reach down and almost kiss the emerald-green water, 9km northeast of Santa Eulària…

Parc Natural de Ses Salines

Encompassing southeastern Ibiza and stretching south across the water to northern Formentera, this 168-sq-km World Heritage–listed nature reserve…

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Ibiza, Spain

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Ibiza has much more to offer than the nightclubs and paella-and-chips package holidays normally associated with this Balearic island. Leave the tourist trail and discover the hidden Ibiza of dozy provincial towns, restored farmhouses, remote rocky coves and some of the best beaches in Spain . The island, a paradise for walking, riding and swimming in clear seas, is best visited before or after the onslaught of summer clubbers.

Where to stay in Ibiza

The best hotels in ibiza and formentera.

More hotels in Ibiza

The locals refer to Santa Gertrudis as Ibiza’s Notting Hill, and all about the village are markers of upscale bohemian life: inventive vegan restaurants, hippy-bling boutiques, yummy mummies in expensively cut batik. What there wasn’t, though, was a hotel – a wrong righted by Ibizan matriarch Cati Roig and her two sons when they opened Gatzara on the site of her childhood home.

Slap bang in the middle of the village, overlooking a square that buzzes with life, here is a cool, clean space, its white walls balanced with geometric throw cushions and Nordic-influenced bleached-pine woodwork. A colour palette of wood, stone and muted gold gives rooms a tranquil feel; and gauzy mosquito nets add a hint of airy romance. Guests start the day with fresh fruit, eggs and pastries in the light-filled, triple-height communal space with its living wall of yuccas and orchids, before taking advantage of Santa Gertrudis’s position at the heart of the island – embarking on day trips up to the wild beaches of the north or down to Ibiza Town with its razzle and bustle.

In the evening everyone congregates up on the roof terrace for sundowners around the lovely little pool. There’s no restaurant but two minutes’ walk away are half-a-dozen crackers, including Gitano with its sushi and South American cocktails, and the reassuringly expensive Macao, probably Ibiza’s best Italian restaurant. Double rooms from about £140; +34 971 932563; hotelgatzaraibiza.com

By David Annand.

Far from the madding crowds of Las Salinas, in the orange groves of central Ibiza, sits the 300-year-old finca Atzaró. The hotel has 24 rooms with Ibizan fireplaces, Asian and African decorative touches and private terraces with views over the island. For laidback parties, head to the spa for its mix of Asian and European treatments. £££ 00 34 971 33 88 38; atzaro.com

Cushan Hoar-Stevens and his partner Laetitia Vidal run their six-bedroom hotel with relaxed aplomb, and if you have young children, it's a great choice. This 400-year-old house, some 200 metres above sea level and 30 minutes' walk through pine forests from the nearest beach, is one of the friendliest and most secluded agroturismo properties on the island. Its main selling points are isolation and spectacular sunrise views. £££ 00 34 971 335 742; hotelcantalaias.com

A restored ibicenco farmhouse (still occupied by manager Vicente Mari's family) forms the heart of this quiet rural hotel - the finest agroturismo establishment on the island. Guests are lodged in individual cottages around the farm, among olive groves and orchards. ££££ 00 34 97 1335 280: cancurreu.com

This 200-year-old 12-bedroom countryhouse with traditional juniper ceilings is in a quiet and fairly remote location in the centre of the island. One of the two spacious suites has a cosy, rather genteel library, and while not all the bedrooms have outside space, they do all overlook the gardens. An ancient olive tree stands sentry in the herb garden; meals are home-cooked and organic. There are two swimming pools, a Finnish sauna and a 'wellness area' for massages. ££££ 00 34 971 197 700; casgasi.com

EL HOTEL PACHA

Serenely white El Hotel is just a short walk from the Pacha club, and has 53 junior suites. El Bar hosts raucous post-Pacha parties; and there is a fusion restaurant and outdoor pool. £££ 00 34 97 1315 963; elhotelpacha.com

HOTEL HACIENDA

A classic and long-established haute-luxe hotel with 77 rooms, on a clifftop on the wild northern coast. £££ 00 34 97 1334 500; haciendanaxamena-ibiza.com

HOTEL LA VENTANA

Of the many hotels in Ibiza town, this 13-room converted mansion, on a quiet square high up beside the city walls, is without doubt the most stylish. The hotel has an acclaimed restaurant on the front terrace, and offers a seven-day 'Body Clean' programme that involves fasting, doctor supervision and massage. There is also a possibility to do Bikram Yoga. ££ 00 34 97 1390 857; www.laventanaibiza.com

HOTEL LAS BRISAS DE IBIZA

Vertiginously sited on a peninsula looking back across a glorious strip of unspoiled coastline, Las Brisas represents high glamour, decorated in eclectic Moorish style. The hotel has three suites and six double rooms. Open April-October. £££ 00 34 97 1802 193; lasbrisasibiza.com

LES TERRASSES

A luxurious ibicenco farmhouse hotel, French-run and splendid, with eight rooms. £££ 00 34 97 1332 643; lesterrasses.net

LOS JARDINES DE PALERM

Owned by fashion photographer Christophe Brihet and his wife Cristina, this is the island's first minimalist hotel. Brihet designed the elegant modern spaces, and his wife (who is an expert in Chinese culture) introduced the Chinese ceramics and ancient manuscripts. ££ 00 34 971 800 318; jardinsdepalerm.com

MIRADOR DE DALT VILA

This 1904 mansion was one of the first of its kind to be built in the walled Old Town of Ibiza, now a World Heritage Site. Owing to planning restrictions, the exterior had to remain unaltered in its mansion-to-hotel makeover, so only a few rooms have balconies. The interior, however, has been totally reworked: all the walls and floors are new, and a lift has been installed. The result is stylish and very comfortable, and while the marble-and-onyx bathrooms may be over-the-top, almost everything else is tasteful and restful. ££££ 00 34 971 303 045; hotelmiradoribiza.com

With its Zen-like interior, Villa Roca is the antithesis of the wood-beam aesthetic of traditional Ibizan fincas. Cut into the rock, the villa sits within the Truntoi mountain range, a forested nature reserve thick with wild flowers. Despite being virtually self-sufficient in water and using low-energy electricity, each suite has a plasma or LCD television, DVD and sound system. Hedonism isn't confined to the bedroom though: there are three pools, a dance floor and Bedouin chill-out tent. Chefs cook local specialities such as Ibizan goat's-cheese soufflé and lobster paella, using organic ingredients in line with the island's boho style. Even though the location is secluded, Ibiza Town is just six kilometres away, meaning with Villa Roca, the party will come to you. £££ 00 34 68 6351 098; villarocaibiza.com

Where to eat out in Ibiza

The best restaurants in ibiza.

More restaurants in Ibiza

The ever-evolving Grand Dame of Ibiza's agroturismos turns 10 this year and shows no sign of slowing down. Nestled among the olive groves next to Ibiza's only open-air spa is the KM0 restaurant, whose new 'Healthy Veranda' menu focuses on raw and vegetarian dishes designed to aid well-being. Non-residents are welcome any time, and should also try Atzaro's enticing new 'Atzaro Fits You' package - a morning of yoga, CrossFit and stretching, followed by a swim, sauna, Hammam and Healthy Veranda lunch. 00 34 971 33 88 38; atzaro.com

BAMBUDDHA GROVE

Long-established, bamboo-filled 'Mediterrasian' bar and restaurant with outdoor tables lit by tiny lights and set around an extraordinarily pretty antique fountain from south-east Asia. The food is decent enough Thai - but it's the setting you go for. 00 34 97 1197 510; bambuddha.co

IBIZA DELIVERS

Ibiza's first high-end provisioning company specialises in high-quality, hard-to-find products delivered to your door. Yacht chefs love the sushi-standard fish and local meats, while sloth-like villa residents rely on the 'fridge stocking' service. The fruit and vegetables are hand sourced and beautifully presented, and with arguably the best vegan and gluten-free selection on the island, fussy eaters are happy. 00 34 971 100 757; ibizadelivers.com

Glamorous locals flock to family-run restaurant La Paloma for home-style Italian food. Try the antipasto misto or the tagliatelle with aromatic herbs picked from the organic vegetable garden. 00 34 971 325 543; palomaibiza.com

Nagai has fast become the sushi joint to namedrop. Shunning the 'Tokyo glam' appeal of Ibiza's other Japanese restaurants, Nagai is charming, low-key, and laidback. Diners can choose between the candlelit courtyard, dotted with ancient olive trees, or the hotchpotch of tiny indoor rooms (the building is an original finca). Ingredients are all organic and there's plenty for vegans and vegetarians, although it would be a sin to miss the light-as-a-feather turbot in seaweed tempura with honey mustard. Nagai's multilingual staff are all super-proficient and very clued up on saké. 00 34 971 80 73 08; nagairestaurant.com

PASSION CAFÉ

In her own words, Passion Café founder Lana Love has been 'making healthy living delicious' since 2002. Fusing pomegranate and pistachio, quinoa and avocado, Love has created a menu that visibly bursts with goodness. Detoxers love her home-delivered raw food cleanses, but it's not all holier-than-thou - imagine a healthy (and improperly delicious) spin on burgers, pasta, cooked breakfasts and cupcakes too. 00 34 971 305 130; passion-ibiza.com

PLAZA DEL SOL

This restaurant has quietly become a favourite with Ibiza residents. It has one of the most romantic settings imaginable - on a stone terrace among the walls of Ibiza Town. Try the potatoes with goat's cheese or the baby lamb chops. 00 34 97 1390 773; www.plazadelsolibiza.com

What to see in Ibiza

BEACHES AND COVES

Aguas blancas.

Sant Carles, Ibiza. A small beach with rugged cliffs and clear shallow waters, Aguas Blancas is the perfect spot for some swimming. Watch out for the nudists.

Sant Joan, Ibiza. Located in a calm bay, Benirras offers good snorkelling and the opportunity to go walking in the surrounding hills. Popular with yacht-owners who moor their boats just inside the cliff walls of the bay.

Sant Antonio Bay, Ibiza. White sand, a shady pine forest and headlands that stick up in the sea. The rocky coves can be discovered on foot. You can reach the beach by car, or by ferry from San Antonio.

POU DES LLEO

Sant Carles, Ibiza. This idyllic cove offers the perfect opportunity to go on a small excursion before hitting the beach. There is very little shade on the beach, so be aware of the midday sun.

To see the 20 best beaches in Ibiza , click here.

Things to do in Ibiza

Beach clubs, el chiringuito.

If you're a fan of Provencale rosé and very long lunches, then there's nowhere better to spend an afternoon than on the sun-dappled upper deck of El Chiringuito. The laidback Es Cavallet beach club is loved by off-the-radar celebrities (Kate Moss is a huge fan) who come here for salt-baked seabass and excellent sashimi - there's even a dedicated juice bar. Book an oversized white daybed for afterwards and sip cava sangria before an unannounced DJ drops by - Richie Hawtin has played some amazing sets here. 00 34 971 39 53 55, elchiringuitoibiza.com

AMANTE BEACH CLUB

Literally cut out of the cliffs, Amante is not a place you simply stumble across. It's worth the hunt though, for vertiginous sea views, capacious lounging beds and award-winning food. Spend a day on the bleached wood terraces, nibbling quinoa salad and Asian black cod, before tiptoeing down to swim in the secluded cove. Alternatively, come late, when the moonlit sea makes the perfect backdrop to a romantic supper. Tuesday mornings have an excellent beach yoga session followed by a healthy breakfast buffet, for €25. 00 34 971 196176, amanteibiza.com

CALA D'AUBARCA

This cove is Ibiza's loveliest untouched beauty spot - perfect for romantic picnics. Ask for directions in the bar/shop opposite the church in Sant Mateu. FORMENTERA The neighbouring island of Formentera makes up the Illes Pitiüses with Ibiza, and is a good place for a day trip. Relatively few tourists go here, so Formentera's beaches are quieter than those on Ibiza. You can only reach the island by boat - tickets can be bought at the Estación Marítima de Formentera in Ibiza Town.

TAGOMAGO ISLAND

Located just a few kilometres off Ibiza's north-western tip, Tagomago is a good place to spend a day or two. The private island is a popular spot for both fishing and water sports. A boat to take you out to Tagomago can be hired on the beach at Sant Vicent, and the island can be rented through the owner ( tagomago-island.com ).

How to get to Ibiza

Ibiza airport is 8km east of Ibiza Town.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com ) and EasyJet (0905 821 0905; easyjet.com ) fly from the UK to Ibiza.

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IBIZA, or Eivissa in Catalan, is an island of excess – beautiful, and blessed with scores of stunning cove beaches and dense pine forests. Nevertheless, it’s the islanders (eivissencs) and their visitors who make it special. Ibiza has long attracted hedonistic characters and wealthy bohemians, and the locals remain determinedly blasé about the mullet-haired fashionistas and celebrities who flock to the island today.

Brief history

Clubbing on ibiza, the east coast of ibiza, the north of ibiza, the west and south coast of ibiza.

For years, Ibiza was the European hippie escape, but nowadays it’s the extraordinary clubbing scene that most people come here to experience. The island can lay a strong claim to being the globe’s clubbing capital, with virtually all of the world’s top house DJs and many more minor players performing here during the summer season. However, visit between October and May, and you’ll find a much more peaceful island – just one club (Pacha) and a few funky bars remain open through the winter.

Ibiza Town, the capital, is the obvious place to base yourself: only a short bus ride from two great beaches – Ses Salines and Es Cavallet – and crammed with bars, restaurants and boutiques. The town of Sant Antoni is, for the most part, a sprawling concrete mass of seedy bars and unappealing restaurants, and is best avoided beyond a few choice bars and clubs. The more pleasant town of Santa Eulària is a good base for exploring the north of the island. Around the entire shoreline, you’ll find dozens of exquisite cove beaches (calas), many all but deserted even in high season, though you’ll need your own transport to reach the best spots. Inland, the scenery is hilly and thickly wooded, dotted with a series of tiny hamlets.

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The Carthaginians, who founded Ibiza Town in about 654 BC, transformed the island into a major trading port, with salt the main export. The Romans arrived in 123 BC and the island continued to prosper. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Ibiza was conquered by the Moors in the ninth century, and their five-hundred-year reign is still evident in the island’s architecture and traditional dress. But thereafter a gradual decline set in, and it wasn’t until Beatniks discovered the island in the 1950s that Ibiza began to reinvent itself as one of the most chic locations in the Mediterranean.

Today more than four million tourists flock to the much-revered “white isle” every year. However, Ibiza’s tourism-driven prosperity has seen more and more coastline consumed by rampant development. The balance between keeping the tourists coming and maintaining the island’s natural allure is keenly felt by the islanders but, for now at least, it’s not hard to find a pristine cove or a quiet forested trail if you make the effort.

Favouring Mallorca over Ibiza? Explore our guide to the best places to stay in Mallorca for couples . For a wider selection of places to stay, also see our guide to the best places to stay in Mallorca .

Some of the globe’s most spectacular clubs are spread across the southern half of Ibiza. Clubs cost around €30–70 to get in, are open between midnight and 6am – try to blag a guest pass from one of the bars. The Discobus (midnight–6.30am; €3) ferries partygoers from Ibiza Town to the island’s major clubs, leaving from the main port.

IBIZA TOWN (Ciutat d’Eivissa) is easily the most attractive settlement on the island. Colossal medieval walls guard the maze of cobbled streets of the UNESCO-listed old town quarter of Dalt Vila. The walls reach a dramatic climax at the main archway entrance, the imposing Portal de ses Taules. Just beyond is the elegant Plaça de Vila, which is lined with restaurants and cafés and makes a delightful setting for some tapas or a meal. It’s well worth the walk up the steep, winding streets to the cathedral, if only to enjoy the wonderful views out over the harbour.

During summer nights, the whitewashed streets of the port area are packed with people darting between chic boutiques, street market stalls and hip bars. In winter, things are much more peaceful, and the focus of activity shifts to the area around the graceful boulevard Passeig de Vara de Rey.

Heading northeast from Ibiza Town, it’s 15km to SANTA EULÀRIA DES RIU, a pleasant town with a plush marina but few obvious sights. Though it does boast an attractive church – a fortified whitewashed sixteenth-century construction perched on a hilltop to the west of the town centre, SANT CARLES, 7km to the north, is an agreeable one-horse village.

East of Sant Carles the road passes through burnt-red fields of olive, almond and carob trees to several almost untouched beaches. Cala Llenya, a broad sandy cove with sparkling waters, is the nearest, and is popular with families. Tiny Cala Mastella, 2km farther north, is a supremely peaceful spot, with a diminutive sandy beach and crystal-clear sheltered water. Just north of Cala Mastella, Cala Boix is another stunning sandy cove, a little larger and more exposed.

Continuing north from Cala Boix, the coastal road follows an exhilarating, serpentine route above the shore, through thick pine forests and past the lonely nudist beach of Aigües Blanques.

Heading to Spain anytime soon? Don't miss our important planning tips .

Twenty kilometres from Ibiza Town, SANT JOAN is a pretty hilltop village home to a typically minimalist, whitewashed Ibizan church, and a sprinkling of café-bars. North of the village are some wonderful beaches, especially remote Cala d’en Serra, a tiny, exquisite sandy cove, with turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling. Benirràs, 9km northwest of Sant Joan, is another beautiful bay, backed by high, wooded cliffs. This is one of Ibiza’s prime hippie-centric beaches – dozens gather here to burn herbs and pound drums to the setting sun on Sundays.

The next village to the west is SANT MIQUEL, where there’s an imposing fortified church, and a number of simple tapas bars – try Es Pi Ver for an inexpensive meal. The once astonishingly beautiful inlet at PORT DE SANT MIQUEL, 3km north of the village, has been badly mauled by the developers, but outside high season it’s not too packed here, and the sheltered bay is great for children.

For years unchallenged at the top of Europe’s costa hooligania league table, the package resort of SANT ANTONI DE PORTMANY on the island’s west coast is trying hard to shake off its tarnished image. The high-rise concrete skyline and gritty British pubs of the “West End” aren’t at all enticing, but the Sunset Strip on the western side of town is an appealing place for a drink. Hordes of young British clubbers flock to San An for its plethora of bars within easy staggering distance.

Beaches near Sant Antoni

Heading south of Sant Antoni, it’s just a few kilometres to some exquisite coves. Sheltered Cala Bassa gets packed with holidaying families in high season, but it does have a campsite, while the more exposed beach of Cala Conta is less crowded, and is a beautiful spot to while away an afternoon. The most beguiling beach in the Balearics, Cala d’Hort, is in the extreme southwest of the island, with a lovely quiet sand-and-pebble shoreline plus three good, moderately priced seafood restaurants. From the shore there are mesmeric vistas of Es Vedrà, an incisor-shaped 378-metre-high islet that’s revered by islanders and island hippies alike, and is the subject of various myths and legends – including a claim to be Homer’s island of the sirens.

Taking the scenic southern road to Ibiza Town you pass via SANT JOSEP, a pretty village with a selection of café-restaurants. Some 7km southwest of Sant Josep, Cala Jondal, is a popular pebble beach.

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 05.06.2024

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